Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread

Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread is a delightful blend of tart cranberries and creamy cheese, making it perfect for holiday gatherings, brunches, or as a quick snack. This spread combines sweet and savory flavors that appeal to all palates. Easy to prepare, it can be enjoyed with bagels, crackers, or as a topping for your favorite dishes. Whether you’re hosting a festive party or simply treating yourself, this recipe stands out for its vibrant color and delicious taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor – The combination of cranberries and cream cheese creates a rich, tangy taste that is truly irresistible.
• Easy to Make – With minimal preparation and no cooking required, you can whip up this spread in just a few minutes.
• Versatile Uses – Perfect for spreading on bagels, crackers, or even served alongside meats at your next gathering.
• Great for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a holiday party or a casual brunch, this spread fits right in.
• Visually Appealing – The bright red color from the cranberries adds a festive touch to any table setting.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread efficiently, gather the necessary tools before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or whisk
• Spatula
• Serving dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl – Essential for combining ingredients without spills and mess.
• Hand mixer or whisk – Helps achieve the perfect creamy consistency for the spread.
• Spatula – Ideal for scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are well mixed.

Ingredients

For the Spread

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread

Step 1: Prepare the Cranberries

1. Rinse the fresh cranberries under cold water.
2. Remove any stems or damaged berries.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract.
2. Use a hand mixer or whisk until smooth and creamy.
3. Fold in the prepared cranberries and chopped pecans using a spatula until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Serve and Garnish

1. Transfer the mixture to a serving dish.
2. Top with finely chopped parsley for an extra pop of color.
3. Enjoy with your choice of bagels, crackers, or as part of a charcuterie board.

How to Serve Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread

Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread is a versatile dish that can elevate any gathering or meal. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or spread it on your favorite bread, there are many creative ways to enjoy this delicious spread.

On Crackers

• Savory Crackers: Pair with whole grain or herb-flavored crackers for a delightful contrast in taste.
• Fruit and Nut Crackers: These add a sweet and crunchy element that complements the creaminess.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Veggie Platter: Serve alongside an assortment of fresh veggies like celery sticks, bell pepper strips, and cucumber slices for a refreshing crunch.
• Stuffed Peppers: Fill mini sweet peppers with the spread for a colorful and tasty bite-sized treat.

As a Sandwich Filling

• Turkey Sandwiches: Spread cranberry cream cheese on turkey sandwiches for a flavorful twist.
• Vegetarian Wraps: Use it as a creamy base in wraps with spinach, avocado, and other fresh veggies.

For Breakfast or Brunch

• Bagels: Slather it on toasted bagels for a sweet and savory start to your day.
• Toast: Top whole-grain toast with cranberry cream cheese and sliced fruit for a nutritious breakfast option.

How to Perfect Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread

Creating the perfect Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your spread is always a hit.

• Bold Ingredients: Use fresh cranberries or high-quality cranberry sauce for vibrant flavor.
• Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Let your cream cheese sit out before mixing to achieve a smoother consistency.
• Seasoning Matters: Add a pinch of salt or cinnamon to enhance flavors and balance sweetness.
• Mix Well: Blend ingredients thoroughly until creamy, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the spread for at least an hour to let the flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread

Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread pairs wonderfully with various side dishes, making every meal special. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like brie, cheddar, and gouda complements the spread’s richness.
2. Mixed Nuts: Offer salted or spiced nuts for added crunch and flavor contrast.
3. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds sweetness that balances the tangy cream cheese.
4. Mini Quiches: Savory quiches provide heartiness that pairs well with the creaminess of the spread.
5. Pita Chips: These crispy chips add texture and are perfect for scooping up the spread.
6. Roasted Veggies: Serve roasted seasonal vegetables for a warm side that enhances the overall flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making cranberry cream cheese spread, it’s easy to overlook certain details. Avoiding these common mistakes will help you achieve the best flavor and texture.

• Using stale ingredients: Always check your cream cheese and cranberries for freshness. Stale ingredients can ruin the taste.
• Ignoring temperature: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. Cold cream cheese doesn’t blend well and can lead to lumps.
• Overmixing the spread: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the texture too soft and affect the spread’s consistency.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Taste as you go! You may need more sugar or salt depending on your preferences. Don’t be afraid to adjust the flavors to suit your palate.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cranberry cream cheese spread in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread

• This spread can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer bag.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight when ready to use.

Reheating Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the spread in an oven-safe dish and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place a small portion in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 10-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently heat on low in a saucepan, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does cranberry cream cheese spread last?

Cranberry cream cheese spread lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator and up to 2 months when frozen.

Can I customize my cranberry cream cheese spread?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, herbs, or spices like cinnamon for extra flavor.

What can I serve with cranberry cream cheese spread?

This versatile spread pairs wonderfully with crackers, bagels, or toast.

Is cranberry cream cheese spread healthy?

While it contains cream cheese, it’s a delightful treat when enjoyed in moderation.

Can I use other fruits instead of cranberries?

Yes! You can substitute cranberries with other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a different twist.

Final Thoughts

Cranberry cream cheese spread is a delightful addition to any meal or gathering. Its creamy texture and sweet-tart flavor make it versatile for various occasions. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients for a personal touch!

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Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x

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Description

Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread is a vibrant and flavorful addition to any gathering, combining the tartness of fresh cranberries with the creamy richness of softened cream cheese. This easy-to-make spread is perfect for holiday parties, brunches, or as a quick snack. Simply mix together a handful of ingredients, and you’ll have a delightful treat that pairs beautifully with bagels, crackers, or even as a topping for savory dishes. With its visually appealing color and delicious taste, this spread will impress your guests and elevate your appetizer game.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Rinse and prepare the cranberries by removing stems and damaged berries.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth using a hand mixer or whisk.
3. Fold in prepared cranberries and chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
4. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with finely chopped parsley.
5. Serve with bagels, crackers, or use as part of a charcuterie board.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 tablespoons (30g)
• Calories: 100
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 60mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: For added flavor complexity, consider mixing in a pinch of cinnamon or salt. Let the spread chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.